Park Theatre Foundation members talk renovation

Friday

Mar 21, 2014 at 3:00 PM

By Peg.McNichol@hollandsentinel.com(616) 546-4269

Members of the Park Theatre Foundation are blunt in describing the state of the downtown movie house-turned-community gem."You know The Park. Despite its tired, well-used interior, you've either booked it for an event, attended an event there, or driven by it as events have occurred," is how they put it in an invitation to a sneak peek at what's coming up. They're talking about a clean slate — and that's exactly what a Thursday gathering at the Park has been dubbed: A "Clean Slate Party."The "Clean Slate" party is set for 5-7 p.m. Thursday at the Park Theatre, 248 S. River Ave., Holland.Offering a virtual tour, live entertainment and half-price drinks, organizers hope to spark visitors' imaginations of what the Park Theatre can host in the future: music, independent film series, children's events, lectures or comedy nights. Another reason for Thursday's party is to collect new ideas. Already a Tuesday evening open mic night has gotten so crowded, theatre management is asking participants to arrive earlier to ensure stage time.Among the reasons to preserve the historic movie house: It's location across the street from Centennial Park in downtown Holland; success in keeping the doors open since 2001 "on a modest budget," which has included concerts and other performances, hosting films during Tulipanes and being home to public and private events. The theatre has a liquor license and a capacity for up to 300 people, depending on seating.Anyone who can't attend but wants to see Park Theatre renovations continue can make tax deductible donations online or send a check to the Park Theatre Foundation, P.O. Box 1933, Holland, MI, 49422-1933.— Follow this reporter on Facebook and Twitter, @SentinelPeg.